Shaler Area

School District

Shaler Area

School District

Shaler Area

School District

Take 5 with Dr. O’Black — August 28

Take 5 with Dr. O'Black

August 28, 2026

Dear Shaler Area Families,

It is hard to believe that the first week of the 2026–2027 school year is already in the books!

There is always something special about the first week of school—the buses pulling in, students reconnecting with friends, teachers welcoming new classes, and our buildings once again filled with the energy that makes Shaler Area such a special place.

As we close out the week, I want to take a moment to share five highlights that reflect the energy, pride, and commitment across our schools and community. Thank you for continuing to partner with us as we live out our vision to Engage, Empower, and Excel.

Welcome to our New Staff
Please join us in extending a warm welcome to the newest members of our Shaler Area faculty! We are excited to welcome Olivia Shimer to the High School Math Department, following her student teaching at Freeport Area High School. Additionally, our World Language Department is expanding with two fantastic educators: Amy Metzger, who brings experience from Knoch High School to teach across both Shaler Area High School and Middle School, and Cheryl Hindman, who joins the Middle School team after teaching French and Communications at Bentworth High School.

Infinite Campus Information
We also encourage all families to update contact information and complete any outstanding paperwork in Infinite Campus. Accurate information ensures you receive timely updates and helps us provide the best possible support for your child. If you need assistance, our team can be reached at infinite@shalerarea.org.

Student Spotlight: Kori Wilson
This summer, Shaler Area graduate and Shaler Area High School Sustainability Club standout Kori Wilson was recognized for her contributions to the environment and community at an Allegheny County Council meeting. As the council’s first-ever junior member, Kori introduced a motion urging public and private property owners throughout the County to take proactive steps to reduce stormwater runoff into local watersheds, helping protect the natural beauty and environmental health of the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers. The motion passed unanimously. Congratulations, Kori, and thank you for your continued dedication to our community!

Visitor Management
As a reminder, all visitors entering our schools are required to check in through our Raptor Visitor Management System. Please be prepared to present a valid photo ID upon arrival. Once cleared, visitors will receive a printed badge to wear during their time in the building. This process is an important part of ensuring the safety and security of our students and staff.

If you wish to meet with a principal or counselor, we kindly ask that you call ahead to schedule an appointment. Doing so allows us to provide you with the time and attention you deserve while minimizing disruptions to the school day.

Thank you Glensaw Century Club
We are grateful to the Glenshaw Century Club for their continued support of Shaler Area. For many years, they have demonstrated their commitment to education by providing scholarships to our graduating seniors.

In recent years, they have also created a heartwarming tradition—donating handcrafted Care Bears to every new kindergarten student. What began during COVID as a gesture of comfort has become a meaningful way to welcome our youngest Titans to the Shaler Area family.

Thank you, Century Club, for once again sharing your care and generosity with our students. We appreciate your longstanding partnership and commitment to our community!

Stay Connected
Follow us on social media to celebrate all that’s happening in Shaler Area:

  • Twitter/X: @ShalerArea
  • Facebook: facebook.com/ShalerAreaSD
  • Instagram: @shalerareaschooldistrict

Week One is complete—and there is so much more ahead.

Have a wonderful weekend, Titans!

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